Olympic security fears about bogus Games helpers

It has become clear that MI5 are very concerned that this could become a vehicle for penetration by potential groups

Patrick Mercer

Around 70,000 people have already been signed up to work at Olympics venues this summer, where they will be known as Games Makers.

But MI5 reckons the initiative could open the door for those hoping to cause havoc.

Patrick Mercer, former chairman of the Commons counter-terrorism subcommittee, said: “Individuals can apply online to act as supervisors for the Olympic Games.

“They go along to the site, fi ll out an electronic form and then have a 15-minute interview.

“It transpires they can be asked to help with security – watching people for behavioural patterns.

“It has become clear that MI5 are very concerned that this could become a vehicle for penetration by potential groups.”

Earlier this year Olympics officials were criticised after it was revealed the Games Makers had undergone what was dubbed a “diversity and inclusion quiz” as part of their training for the event.

Volunteers were asked how they would respond to different scenarios, such as a member of the public complaining about a gay couple in the crowd holding hands – and how they would distinguish between a hijab and a scarf.

The London 2012 website says: “Games Makers will be on hand at all venues to answer your questions, help you find your way around and direct you to your seat.

“You can spot them by their snazzy, brightly-coloured uniforms.”

There are also fears that criminal gangs could pose as Games Makers to infiltrate the Olympics.

Intelligence experts claim organised teams of robbers are using the internet to source “official-looking” uniforms so they can pose as London 2012 staff.

The gangs hope to gain the trust of foreign tourists unfamiliar with British officials before robbing them.

A spokesman for international security experts SIRS said: “We are aware that criminal gangs are targeting the Olympic Games.

“These gangs may attempt to exploit tourists who are less familiar with genuine British officials affiliated with the emergency services or security or voluntary organisations.

“Any suspicion of false identity should be immediately reported to the police.”

● FIGHTER planes took off from West London airfield RAF Northolt for the first time since the Second World War yesterday.

The four Typhoon jets were taking part in Day 4 of Operation Olympic Guardian – an eight-day operation to test security for the Games.